For businesses operating an on-premise laundry room, maintaining a safe, compliant and efficient environment is critical.
An important aspect of this maintenance, often overlooked, is the regular cleaning of commercial dryer ducts.
This guide will explore the regulations, the steps involved, and the benefits of regular duct cleaning from an industry professional.
The importance of ductwork cleaning
As commercial dryers work to process laundry, a significant byproduct is lint. Over time it accumulates within the dryer ducting, gradually constricting airflow, which can lead to the following issues.
Fire hazards
Lint is flammable and the accumulation of lint within the ductwork creates a fire risk. The combination of restricted airflow, which can lead to overheating, and the presence of combustible material is a dangerous combination.
Reduced energy efficiency
When airflow is restricted, the dryer has to work considerably harder and for longer periods to effectively dry laundry. This increased operational time causes higher energy consumption and thus increase gas or electricity bills.
Mould and odour issues
Trapped moisture within lint-filled ducts can create a breeding ground for mould and mildew. This can lead to unpleasant odours potentially affecting the hygiene of the laundry.
Compromised dryer performance
The reduced airflow forces the dryer to operate inefficiently, leading to longer drying cycles and potentially damaging the equipment over time. This can result in increased maintenance costs and a shorter lifespan for your commercial dryers.
Day-to-day operations may also be affected through longer cycle times and reduced turnaround times in the long term.
Regulatory compliance
Adherence to fire safety regulations is not just a matter of best practice; it is a legal obligation. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 mandates that businesses conduct regular fire safety risk assessments and maintain these assessments.
This includes the inspection and maintenance of ductwork to ensure the safety of your premises, staff and customers.
Why consult a laundry expert?
Whilst removing lint from the dryer itself may seem straight forward, a build-up within the ducting can be difficult to address without assistance from a laundry professional.
- Attempting to clean dryer ducts without the necessary expertise can be ineffective and could damage your equipment.
- Knowledge of regulations ensures the cleaning process meets regulatory standards.
- Laundry professionals like JLA have the necessary cleaning tools and equipment to remove lint, dust and debris.
- Work is carried out to a high standard with minimal disruption to your laundry room.
- Any issues with the duct work like blockages or faults can be rectified.
The steps involved in professional ductwork cleaning
While the specifics of each laundry room may differ, a commercial dryer duct cleaning service typically involves the following steps:
Visual inspection
The process begins with a thorough visual inspection of the entire ductwork system. This allows the technician to identify any potential access challenges or existing issues.
Removing debris and lint
Using specialised tools, including high-powered vacuums and rotary brushes, all accumulated lint, dust, and debris are meticulously removed from the entire length of the ductwork.
Filters
All filters within the system are thoroughly cleaned to ensure optimal airflow.
Verification
Once the cleaning is complete, the technician will verify the effectiveness of the work. A certificate of completion is then provided, documenting the work carried out and demonstrating your compliance with safety regulations.
How JLA Can Assist Your Business
Contact JLA today so we can help keep your laundry room safe and compliant.
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